Stunning beaches, an abundance of thrilling outdoor pursuits and the friendliest locals - this is why Albania is quietly becoming one of Europe’s best destinations for a family holiday, writes Emily-Ann Elliott. As my independent 18-month-old wriggled free from my grasp and waddled off confidently down the aisle of the plane ahead of our flight to Albania, I steeled myself for concerned looks from other passengers. Often when I’m travelling with my two young children, I end up tying myself in knots in my eagerness to not disturb others.
Instead, I was surprised to see him greeted by countless smiles, high-fives and the odd hair ruffle. An elderly lady dressed entirely in black gave me a smile almost as toothless as my toddler’s and laughed as she turned to watch him pass by. This was the start of my family’s love affair with Albania, truly one of the most family-friendly countries we have ever travelled in.
READ MORE: Discover Albania: Europe’s hidden gem on the brink of a tourist boom . We have just returned from a second visit where my children, now aged 3 and 6, were cooked special portions of petulla (a traditional fried dough breakfast) by guesthouse owners, introduced to family dogs, cats and goats and welcomed with open arms into one of the country’s best restaurants. “Albanians cherish children above all else.
You’ll find your kids receiving VIP treatment everywhere you go,” says Emma Heywood, the owner of Undiscovered Balkans, which has just launche.
